What makes giftedness?

Gifted children constitute a highly heterogeneous group. That is why there is no consensus about the characteristics that define them and no single agreed upon definition of giftedness.

As a result, the way in which we see giftedness will be a determining factor when it comes to the identification of gifted and talented children and the development of teaching strategies for meeting their needs.

The Renzulli Three-Ring Definition

Renzulli was one of the earliest theorists who proposed a multifaceted conception of giftedness. He describes it as a multidimensional construct incorporating a variety of traits, skills, and abilities.

In his three-ring conception, Renzulli explains that gifted behaviour consists of behaviours that reflect an interaction among three clusters – above average ability, high levels of task commitment, and high levels of creativity (2011: 459).

Below are characteristics that are often manifested in the clusters.

Above average ability:

- High levels of abstract thought

- Adaptation to novel situations

- Rapid and accurate retrieval of information

Task commitment:

- Capacity for high levels of interest and/or enthusiasm

- Hard work and determination in a particular area

- Self-confidence and drive to achieve

- Ability to identify significant problems within an area of study

- Setting high standards for one’s work

Creativity:

- Fluency, flexibility, and originality of thought

- Open to new experiences and ideas

- Curious

- Willing to take risks

No single cluster "makes giftedness". Rather, it is the interaction among the three clusters that is the necessary ingredient.